Welcome to Sunday Suppers full of comforting aromas, cherished memories, and the world of Banana Bread! Close your eyes for a moment and imagine the sweet smell of ripe bananas filling the air as they blend with the toasty scent of cinnamon and warm baked goodness. It’s a scent that has the power to transport you back to simpler times, back to when mom or grandma would guide you through the art of baking.
Banana bread is more than just a delightful treat; it’s a time-honored tradition that has been passed down through generations. It’s that one recipe that every family seems to have, each with its unique twist and secret ingredient. But regardless of the specific recipe, the result is always the same – a moist, tender loaf of banana-infused heaven that brings smiles to faces young and old.
So, let’s embrace this age-old recipe and all the joy it brings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, making banana bread is an adventure for all. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the magic of banana bread weave its spell. As you take that first warm, fragrant bite, you’ll understand why this timeless treat has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved tradition in households around the world.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional for added crunch and flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, peel the ripe bananas and mash them well using a fork or potato masher. You want a smooth consistency with minimal lumps.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf.
- If you’re using chopped nuts, fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven for about 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it after 50 minutes.
- Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve your delicious homemade banana bread! It’s perfect on its own, but you can also spread some butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for an extra indulgence.